ITA Airways has officially received approval to start the integration process into Star Alliance following a verdict by the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board (CEB). Building on its induction into the Lufthansa Group earlier this year, this decision paves the way for its much-anticipated entry into the world’s largest airline alliance. The onboarding process will now move at full throttle.

Star Alliance Chief Executive Theo Panagiotoulias celebrated the milestone: “In early 2026, ITA Airways is expected to join the Star Alliance network as a full member officially. Our Chief Executive Board’s decision underscores our members’ strong confidence in ITA Airways. As a gateway for Italy, its addition strengthens our global network, offering seamless and connected journeys to more travellers worldwide.”

Joerg Eberhart, CEO and General Manager of ITA Airways, said: “We are excited to join the Star Alliance network and bring Made in Italy’s excellence into the alliance, further enhancing its global reach. This is a significant milestone in ITA Airways’ growth, and we look forward to offering our customers the future privileges of the world’s largest airline network.”

ITA Airways will add 360 daily flights to the Alliance network, further strengthening the alliance’s footprint in the European region. The primary growth will come from its home cities, particularly Rome and Milan, where 16 Star Alliance members operate. Leveraging its legacy within the Alliance, Lufthansa Group is mentoring ITA Airways through its integration journey into Star Alliance.

“I am proud that ITA Airways will become the fifth hub airline of the Lufthansa Group to join Star Alliance. As the mentor of the membership process, we will do our utmost to ensure a smooth and swift integration. ITA Airways’ future membership will provide Star Alliance customers with many new opportunities for personalised travel planning. I am confident that ITA Airways will be an excellent addition to the Star Alliance portfolio,” said Dieter Vranckx, Chief Commercial Officer of the Lufthansa Group.

Upon completing induction, the Star Alliance network will grow to 26 member airlines, offering over 18,000 daily flights connecting 192 countries.

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